Lexington, Texas

Lexington, Texas
Town
Lexington City Hall
Location of Lexington, Texas
Coordinates: 30°24′50″N 97°0′31″W
Country	United States
State	Texas
County	Lee
Area
• Total	1.24 sq mi (3.21 km2)
• Land	1.24 sq mi (3.21 km2)
• Water	0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Elevation	459 ft (140 m)
Population  (2020)
• Total	1,217
• Density	984.69/sq mi (380.12/km2)
Time zone	UTC-6 (Central (CST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code	78947
Area code	979
FIPS code	48-42532
GNIS feature ID	2412893
Website	cityoflexingtontx.com

Lexington is a city in Lee County, Texas, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 1,217. It is located at 30°25′09″N 97°00′42″W (30.4191° N, 97.0117° W). It is the oldest town in Lee County, founded in 1850, and plays a significant role in the county's history and economic landscape.

Located approximately 50 miles (80 km) east of Austin and 125 miles (201 km) northwest of Houston, Lexington maintains its rural character while benefiting from proximity to major urban centers. The town is situated in the eastern part of Lee County, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 77 and Farm to Market Road 696.

Lexington's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cattle trading and crop production being key activities. The town hosts a weekly cattle auction every Saturday, which has been a longstanding tradition. While cotton was historically important, corn has now become the leading cash crop. Lexington is also home to the only flower farm in Lee County.

In recent years, Lexington has gained recognition for its barbecue. Snow's BBQ, open only on Saturdays, has been voted the best barbecue in Texas by Texas Monthly magazine, attracting food enthusiasts from across the state and beyond.

The town's historical significance is preserved through sites like the Lexington Log Cabins and Heritage Center, which showcases the area's pioneer history. Despite losing its status as county seat to Giddings in 1874, Lexington continues to be an important part of Lee County's cultural and economic fabric, blending its historical roots with modern rural life.

History

Lexington, Texas, was founded in the mid-19th century as part of the early settlement of Lee County. The town's origins can be traced back to 1848 when the first post office was established under the name String Prairie, named after the surrounding prairie land.

James Shaw, a young surveyor and teacher from Ohio, is credited as the first white settler in the area. Born in 1808, Shaw played a significant role in the town's early development, serving as the first postmaster and later becoming a veteran and legislator. The area was previously inhabited by Tonkawa Indians before the arrival of European settlers.

In 1850, the residents decided to change the settlement's name from String Prairie to Lexington, choosing to honor the site of the first battle of the American Revolution. This name change reflected the patriotic sentiments of the early settlers and their connection to American history.

The town's growth was boosted in 1869 when twenty-one families from Mississippi arrived by wagon train, significantly increasing the local population. This influx of settlers helped establish Lexington as a permanent community in Lee County.

Lexington's early economy was primarily based on agriculture, with cattle trading becoming a significant activity. The town developed into a cattle trading center, positioning itself about 40 miles (64 km) west of Bryan.

The Lexington Log Cabins and Heritage Center, located in downtown Lexington, provides insight into the town's pioneer history. The center features two restored log cabins and a corncrib from circa 1850, showcasing the lifestyle of early settlers. These structures, once instrumental in the lives of pioneers, have been reassembled on the center's grounds and contain authentic furnishings and artifacts from the era.

Despite its early establishment, Lexington lost its bid to become the county seat to the newer town of Giddings in 1874. Giddings, founded in 1871, won the political battle due to its location on the Houston and Texas Central Railroad line. As a consolation, Lexington later received its own railroad connection when the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway reached the town in 1890.

Railroad impact

The arrival of the railroad had a significant impact on the growth and development of Lexington, Texas in the late 19th century. The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway (SA&AP) reached Lexington in 1890, marking a turning point in the town's history.

Railroad Arrival

The SA&AP began construction of its line from San Antonio to Waco in the late 1880s. The segment from West Point to Lexington was completed in 1889, with the final 58-mile segment between Lexington and Lott finished in 1891. This connection integrated Lexington into the growing Texas railroad network, linking it to major cities and markets.

Economic Impact

The railroad's arrival brought new economic opportunities to Lexington:

1. Agricultural Growth: Improved transportation allowed local farmers to more easily ship their products, particularly cotton, to distant markets.

2. Commercial Development: The railroad facilitated the growth of local businesses by providing easier access to goods and services.

3. Population Increase: While specific population figures for Lexington are not provided, railroads generally spurred population growth in Texas towns by bringing in new settlers and economic opportunities.

Town Revival

Although Lexington had been settled since 1837, the arrival of the SA&AP in 1890 led to a revival of the town. This resurgence came after an earlier decline in the cotton industry, demonstrating the railroad's role in reinvigorating local economies.

Regional Connectivity

The railroad connected Lexington to a broader network of towns and cities:

• To the south, it provided a link to San Antonio and the Gulf Coast.
• To the north, it offered connections to Waco and beyond.
• The line through Lexington became part of a route connecting San Antonio to Waco.

Challenges and Competition

Despite the benefits, Lexington faced challenges:

1. County Seat Loss: Lexington had lost its bid to become the county seat to Giddings in 1874, partly due to Giddings' earlier railroad connection.

2. Regional Competition: Other towns in the area, such as Cameron and Rockdale, also received railroad connections, creating competition for economic growth and influence.

Cattle industry

The cattle industry has played a significant role in the historical and economic development of Lexington, Texas, reflecting broader trends in the state's agricultural history.

Early Cattle Ranching

Lexington's involvement in the cattle industry can be traced back to the mid-19th century when the town was established. The area's abundant land and suitable climate made it ideal for cattle ranching, which became a key economic activity for early settlers.

Post-Civil War Boom

After the Civil War, the cattle industry in Lexington, like much of Texas, experienced significant growth:

• The demand for beef in northern states increased dramatically, with Texas cattle selling for up to six times their local value in northern markets.
• Wild longhorns, descendants of Spanish cattle introduced in the 18th century, roamed the area and were rounded up for cattle drives.
• The Texas longhorn, known for its hardiness and ability to withstand long drives, became a symbol of the Texas cattle industry.

Cattle Drives and Trade

Lexington's location, approximately 40 miles (64 km) west of Bryan, positioned it as a significant point in the cattle trade:

• The town became known as a cattle trading center, with ranchers from surrounding areas bringing their herds to Lexington.
• Weekly cattle auctions became a tradition, with a cattle auction still taking place at 12:30 pm each Saturday.
• These auctions attracted farmers and ranchers from areas around the town, contributing to Lexington's economic activity.

Economic Impact

The cattle industry has been a cornerstone of Lexington's economy:

• It provided employment opportunities for cowboys, ranchers, and associated trades.
• The industry contributed to the town's growth and development, attracting settlers and businesses.
• Cattle trading remains a key activity in Lexington, alongside crop production.

Cultural Significance

Beyond its economic importance, the cattle industry has shaped Lexington's cultural identity:

• The town's rural character and ranching traditions have been preserved, with many ranches still operating in the surrounding area.
• The weekly cattle auctions serve not only an economic function but also as a social gathering for the community.

Challenges and Adaptation

Like many rural Texas towns, Lexington has faced challenges in its agricultural sector:

• Droughts have periodically affected the region, impacting cattle ranching and farming.
• In recent years, some farmland has been converted to cattle ranches, indicating a shift in agricultural practices.

Despite these challenges, the cattle industry continues to be an important part of Lexington's economy and cultural heritage, reflecting the town's resilience and adaptation to changing economic conditions.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.2 square miles (3.1 km²), all land.

Lexington is situated in the Gulf Coastal Plains region of Texas, characterized by rolling to hilly terrain covered with pine and hardwood forests. The area's topography is influenced by its location in the Blackland Belt, a strip of land stretching from the Rio Grande to the Red River, known for its rich, easily cultivated soil.

Terrain and Elevation

The terrain around Lexington is gently rolling, typical of the eastern part of Lee County. Elevations in the county range from slightly less than 230 feet at the confluence of Yegua and Cedar Creeks in the southeast to slightly more than 775 feet in the Yegua Knobs area 12 miles west-southwest of Lexington.

Waterways

Several creeks and streams flow through the Lexington area, forming part of the Brazos River drainage basin. The principal waterways include:

• East Yegua Creek
• Middle Yegua Creek
• West Yegua Creek
• Brushy Creek
• Elm Creek
• Nails Creek
• Cedar Creek

East Yegua and Yegua Creeks partially form the county line between Lee and Burleson Counties, while Cedar Creek separates southeastern Lee County from Washington County.

Climate

Lexington experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa), characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. The area receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 36 inches, decreasing from southeast to northwest across Lee County.

Surrounding Area

Lexington is part of the post-oak belt, locally known as the "Texas Hill Country," despite its geographical location on ranch land. The surrounding area is primarily agricultural, with a mix of farmland and cattle ranches. The region's geology is influenced by the Mexia-Talco fault system, which trends northeastward across the county and affects the underlying aquifer structures.

Demographics

Historical population

Census	Pop.	Note	%±
1870	157		—
1880	179		14.0%
1920	600		—
1930	519		−13.5%
1940	531		2.3%
1950	603		13.6%
1960	711		17.9%
1970	719		1.1%
1980	1,065		48.1%
1990	953		−10.5%
2000	1,178		23.6%
2010	1,177		−0.1%
2020	1,217		3.4%
U.S. Decennial Census 1850–1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010

Lexington racial composition as of 2020
(NH = Non-Hispanic)

Race	Number	Percentage
White (NH)	834	68.53%
Black or African American (NH)	110	9.04%
Native American or Alaska Native (NH)	8	0.66%
Asian (NH)	1	0.08%
Some Other Race (NH)	1	0.08%
Mixed/multiracial (NH)	83	6.82%
Hispanic or Latino	180	14.79%
Total	1,217

As of the 2020 United States census, 1,217 people, 492 households, and 367 families were residing in the town.

As of the census of 2000, there were 1,178 people, 460 households, and 311 families residing in the town. The population density was 992.4 inhabitants per square mile (383.2/km²). The 540 housing units had an average density of 454.9 per square mile (175.6/km²). The racial makeup of the town was 79.88% White, 10.87% African American, 1.10% Native American, 0.08% Asian, 0.17% Pacific Islander, 7.05% from other races, and 0.85% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 9.42% of the population.

Of the 460 households, 38.7% had children under 18 living with them, 50.9% were married couples living together, 12.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.2% were not families. About 30.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.8% had someone living alone who was 65 or older. The average household size was 2.56, and the average family size was 3.16.

In the town, the age distribution was 32.6% under 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 18.4% from 45 to 64, and 13.8% who were 65 or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.2 males. For every 100 females 18 and over, there were 84.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $31,023, and the for a family was $37,917. Males had a median income of $32,083 versus $19,886 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,765. About 11.1% of families and 15.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.0% of those under age 18 and 11.3% of those age 65 or over.

Calvin Trillin of The New Yorker said that while Lexington is not geographically in the Texas Hill Country, as it is located on ranch land, it "ethnically is." A politician from Lee County told Paul Burka of Texas Monthly that the voting scenario in the area is "the Germans against the Czechs, and the Americans are the swing vote."

Local economy

The most common employment sectors for Lexington residents are construction (98 people), public administration (69 people), and health care & social assistance (68 people). The employment rate in Lexington is high, at 98.27%. The average commute time for Lexington residents is 44.5 minutes, with most people driving alone to work. Some of the top employers in the broader region include Walmart, Dollar General, Family Dollar, Garney Construction, and Epcor.

The Lexington Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has implemented several initiatives to support local businesses and promote economic growth in Lexington, Texas:

Business Support Programs

The EDC offers various programs to assist local businesses:

• Business Retention and Enhancement Incentive: This program supports existing business growth, expansion, and improvements. It may include assistance for bringing properties up to code, performing significant interior or exterior capital improvements, and providing skills training or certification for new and existing employees.
• Façade and Exterior Improvement Incentive: This initiative helps businesses enhance their exterior appearance through improvements such as signage, paint, lighting, awnings, and masonry work, with special consideration for historic preservation.
• Enterprise/Start-Up Incentive: This program is designed to support new businesses and developments in Lexington.

Community Development Initiatives

The EDC also focuses on broader community development efforts:

• Quality of Life Incentive: This program supports projects that improve the community's quality of life, including parks, sports facilities, and tourism and entertainment venues.
• Non-Profit/Community Services Incentive: This initiative provides support for projects that offer new or expanded business enterprise or development opportunities for non-profit organizations.

Economic Growth Strategies

The EDC employs various strategies to promote economic growth in Lexington:

• Business Recruitment: The corporation works to attract new job-creating enterprises to Lexington.
• Expansion Assistance: The EDC helps existing businesses in the community with their expansion programs.
• Area Marketing: The department develops, manages, and markets the surrounding area, which offers scenic acreage for potential development.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The Lexington EDC maintains strong ties with various stakeholders to facilitate economic development:

• Collaborates with the City of Lexington, utility suppliers, and the commercial/industrial real estate community.
• Partners with workforce training providers and financial institutions.
• Works closely with the local Chamber of Commerce to promote business activities.

Notable local businesses

Lexington, Texas, despite its small size, is home to several notable local businesses that contribute to the town's character and economy:

Snow's BBQ

Snow's BBQ is arguably the most famous business in Lexington. It has gained significant recognition:

• Voted the best BBQ in the State of Texas by Texas Monthly Magazine
• Open only on Saturdays from 8:00 AM until sold out
• Offers a variety of BBQ meats including brisket, pork steak, spare ribs, chicken, and sausage
• Provides online ordering and shipping options for customers who can't visit in person

Local Retail and Services

While specific information is limited, Lexington has a variety of local businesses serving the community:

• Herk's Store & Grill: A popular local establishment offering both retail and dining services
• Dowdy House: Another notable local business
• Circle B Mercantile: A local mercantile store
• CEFCO: A convenience store serving the area
• Dollar General Store: Providing general merchandise to the community

Financial Institutions

Lexington is home to two financial institutions, which play a crucial role in supporting the local economy.

Other Notable Mentions

• The town has 41 businesses within its trade area
• There's an active Chamber of Commerce that supports and promotes local businesses
• Lexington has a rural health clinic, providing essential medical services to the community

Transportation infrastructure

Lexington, Texas has a limited transportation infrastructure typical of a small rural town.

Public Transit

The Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) provides some public transportation services in Lexington:

• National Intercity service connecting Lexington to other areas
• Community Transit service offering curb-to-curb transportation for disabled individuals and others needing special assistance throughout Central Texas
• A route connecting Lexington to Giddings

School Transportation

Lexington Independent School District (LISD) operates a transportation department to serve K-12 students in the area.

Road Infrastructure

While specific details about Lexington's road infrastructure are limited, as a small rural town it likely relies primarily on local roads and highways:

• FM 1560 is a road in the region, though not specifically in Lexington

Future Projects

The city is working on some infrastructure improvements:

• A GLO Drainage Improvements project is currently in the design phase

Regional Context

While not directly in Lexington, there are some transportation developments in the broader region that may affect the town:

• The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working on various highway expansion and improvement projects in nearby areas
• There are ongoing efforts to improve rural transportation options in Central Texas

Utilities

Electric Service

The City of Lexington provides electric power services to residents. The service area covers approximately 2 square miles.

Natural Gas

Atmos Energy Corporation services Lexington residents with natural gas. For emergencies, residents can contact Atmos at 866-322-8667.

Water and Sewer

The City of Lexington manages water and sewer services for residents.

Emergency Services

Lexington maintains 24/7 emergency services to preserve life, minimize damage, and respond to hazards or disaster events. For 24-hour emergency utilities issues (water, electric, sewer), residents can call 979-540-9026.

Culture and recreation

Lexington, Texas, despite its small size, boasts a rich cultural heritage and several notable traditions, events, and landmarks that reflect its history and community spirit:

Cultural Landmarks

Lexington Log Cabins and Heritage Center

• This center is a significant cultural landmark in Lexington:
• Located in downtown Lexington at 524 Fourth Street
• Features two restored log cabins and a corncrib from circa 1850
• Offers prearranged tours with guides in period clothing
• Demonstrates pioneer crafts and showcases authentic furnishings and artifacts
• Highlights the region's history of farming, open-range ranching, and interactions with Tonkawa Indians

Local Traditions and Events

While specific information about Lexington's events is limited, the town maintains an active community calendar:

• The city emphasizes the importance of keeping residents informed about local happenings and scheduled events
• Community members are encouraged to contribute information about upcoming events

Historical Significance

Lexington's history is closely tied to early Texas settlement:

• The area was instrumental in the lives of early pioneers in the region
• The Heritage Center serves as a non-profit educational association
• Its mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of northern Lee County

Community Spirit

Lexington prides itself on offering a wholesome and fulfilled lifestyle:

• The community combines agriculture, industry, history, civic activities, and recreation
• It's described as an ideal place to raise a family and grow a business

Arts and culture

On Saturdays, farmers and ranchers come into Lexington from areas around the town. A cattle auction takes place at 12:30 pm each Saturday. In addition to the many ranches, Lexington is also home to the only flower farm in Lee County (6G Heritage Farm) at the historic original townsite of Nalley, which is no longer a town today.

While Lexington, Texas is a small town, it maintains a modest arts and culture scene that reflects its rural heritage and community spirit.

Heritage Center

The Lexington Log Cabins and Heritage Center, located at 524 Fourth Street, serves as a focal point for local history and culture. The center features:

• Two authentic log cabins relocated from their original sites
• A single-room cabin and a dogtrot cabin with a detached kitchen
• Exhibits showcasing the area's pioneer history
• Community Events

Lexington hosts various community events throughout the year, although specific details are limited:

• The city maintains an active community calendar to keep residents informed of local happenings
• Seasonal celebrations likely include Fourth of July festivities and holiday gatherings

Agricultural Heritage

The town's cultural identity is closely tied to its agricultural roots:

• Weekly cattle auctions held every Saturday at 12:30 PM serve as both an economic and social gathering
• The surrounding farmland and ranches contribute to Lexington's rural character

Educational Influence

As part of Lee County, Lexington benefits from its proximity to educational institutions that may contribute to cultural activities:

• Local schools likely host arts programs and performances
• Nearby colleges and universities may offer cultural events accessible to Lexington residents

While Lexington may not have a large-scale arts scene, its cultural offerings reflect the town's history, community values, and rural Texas heritage. The community continues to preserve its cultural identity through its heritage center, local events, and agricultural traditions.

Education

Lexington, Texas has a small but comprehensive school system that serves its community.

Lexington Independent School District (ISD)

Lexington ISD is the primary school district serving the area. As of the 2021-2022 school year:

• Total student enrollment: 1,093
• Accountability rating: A
• Four-year graduation rate: 95.3%
• Average teacher experience: 12.2 years

Schools

Lexington ISD operates three campuses:

1. Lexington High School
2. Lexington Middle School
3. Lexington Elementary School

Lexington High School

• Enrollment: 344 students (grades 9-12)
• Accountability rating: B
• Student-teacher ratio: 11 to 1
• Four-year graduation rate: 95.3%

Student Demographics

The student population in Lexington ISD is diverse:

• White: 71%
• Hispanic: 20.3%
• African American: 4.3%
• Two or more races: 3.9%
• Other: 0.5%

Educational Programs

Lexington ISD offers a variety of educational programs:

1. Career and Technical Education (CTE)

• Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources
• Business, Management & Administration
• Manufacturing
• Information Technology
• Health Science
• Law, Public Safety

2. Special Programs

• Dyslexia support
• English as a Second Language (ESL)
• Gifted & Talented
• Homeless student support
• Migrant services
• Early Childhood programs

3. Advanced Placement (AP) courses

• 20.8% of 11th and 12th-grade students participate in AP programs

4. Bilingual/ESL: 4.7% of students enrolled

5. Special Education: 13.3% of students enrolled

College Readiness

For the 2020-2021 graduating class:

• Average SAT score: 958
• Average ACT score: 17.2
• College-ready in Reading: 61.3%
• College-ready in Math: 48%
• College-ready in both Reading and Math: 45.3%

Notable people

• Lyn Collins, soul singer
• Earl Cooper, former NFL player, two-time Super Bowl champion
• James Shaw, first postmaster of Lexington (when it was called String Prairie), war veteran and legislator

Gallery

• 
  Snow's BBQ
• 
  Front of Lexington Post Office
• 
  Main Post Office Sign
• 
  Lexington Cemetery
• 
  Helen Douglass Brown Grave Marker
• 
  Lexington Mural in Downtown
• 
  Town of Lexington Historical Plaque
• 
  Historic Marker First Baptist Church of Lexington
• 
  Heritage Square Historical Plaque

See also

• Lee County, Texas
• Texas Hill Country
• Snow's BBQ
• Giddings, Texas (county seat of Lee County)
• Texas barbecue
• San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway
• Edwards Plateau

External links

• Official website